New Orleans Usa 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day New Orleans Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on the key highlights of New Orleans, balancing classic attractions with opportunities for exploration and local experiences.

Accommodation:

  • Recommendation: Consider staying in the French Quarter for easy access to many attractions and the vibrant atmosphere.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: New Orleans has a humid subtropical climate. Be prepared for warm, humid summers and mild winters.
  • Timing: This itinerary assumes you arrive in New Orleans on Day 1 and depart on Day 6. Adjust the schedule based on your interests and time constraints.

Day 1: Arrival & French Quarter Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in New Orleans (adjust arrival time to your flight). Settle into your hotel and leave luggage.

  • Afternoon: Stroll through the French Quarter, exploring the historic architecture, vibrant street scenes, and unique shops. Visit Jackson Square for a taste of the local culture and enjoy the street performers.

  • Evening: Dinner at Cafe Du Monde (classic beignees & coffee!), followed by a walk along Bourbon Street to soak in the energy of the French Quarter. Enjoy the live music scene and maybe grab a drink at a historic bar like The Carousel Bar & Lounge (inside the Hotel Monteleone).

Day 2: Music & History

  • Morning: Visit the National WWII Museum, one of the best museums in the world dedicated to the Second World War.

  • Afternoon: Explore the French Market, a historic open-air market with local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious food stalls.

  • Evening: Catch a live jazz performance at Preservation Hall for an authentic experience or enjoy a traditional Creole dinner in the French Quarter, followed by a walk to listen to the live music scene on Frenchmen Street.

Day 3: Music & Culinary Delights

  • Morning: Visit the New Orleans Jazz Museum, located in the heart of the city’s music district.
  • Afternoon: Take a cooking class and learn how to make classic Cajun and Creole dishes.
  • Evening: Explore the nightlife on Bourbon Street, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere and live music.

Day 4: Beyond the Quarter

  • Morning: Wander through the historic Garden District, admiring its elegant mansions and beautiful gardens. Grab a coffee at The Vintage Coffee & Tea before exploring.

  • Afternoon: Tour the historic cemeteries of New Orleans for a glimpse into unique above-ground burial practices and local history.

  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the renowned restaurants in the French Quarter.

Day 5: Culture & Celebration

  • Morning: Explore the historic Frenchmen Street music scene.
  • Afternoon: Visit a plantation in the surrounding area, like Oak Alley or Destrehan Plantation, to learn about the history of slavery and its impact on Louisiana’s past.
  • Evening:

Evening Options:

  • Relax and enjoy a jazz performance in a different neighborhood.
  • Experience the lively atmosphere of a traditional Second Line parade.
  • Indulge in a luxurious meal at one of the French Quarter restaurants with live music, followed by a nightcap at a cozy bar.

Day 6: Music & Farewell

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take a final stroll through the French Quarter, exploring any shops or sights you may have missed.
  • Afternoon: Pick up some souvenirs from the French Market or other local stores.
  • Evening:

Evening: Say farewell to New Orleans with a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants showcasing the city’s diverse culinary scene.

Food Recommendations:

  • Classic Cajun/Creole:

    • Breakfast: Cafe Du Monde for their famous beignees and chicory coffee
    • Lunch: Parkway Bakery & Tavern (outside the French Quarter) for a taste of a classic New Orleans po-boy sandwich.
    • Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Creole dinner at a restaurant like Coop’s Place (known for its rabbit dishes) or enjoy a fancy Cajun meal at Gumbo Shop (try their gumbo!).

Food & Drink Experiences:

  • Lunch at a local cafe: Try a muffuletta at Central Grocery (a classic since the early 1900s), or a po-boy at Parkway Tavern in the French Quarter.
  • Dinner at a fine dining restaurant: Experience modern New Orleans cuisine with a twist, like the innovative dishes at Cochon

Other Things to Do:

  • Explore the French Quarter’s unique shops and boutiques.

  • Visit the historic Tremé neighborhood, known for its traditional music scene.

  • Take a ghost tour in the French Quarter, the “most haunted city” in America!

Accommodation Tips:

  • Stay in a historic hotel: For a unique experience, try the Hotel Monteleone (famous for its rotating bar), the Roosevelt Hotel, or the Bourbon Orleans Hotel.
  • Consider staying outside the French Quarter: This can be more affordable and offer a quieter stay while still being close to the action.

Food & Drink Options:

  • For a casual, delicious meal: Enjoy some authentic Cajun food at a restaurant like Coop’s Place, or try a classic New Orleans sandwich from a deli.
  • Experience fine dining in the French Quarter: Many restaurants offer unique and delicious options for dinner.

Things to Remember:

  • Bring cash: Some smaller bars and restaurants in the French Quarter don’t accept credit cards, so it’s best to have some cash on hand.

  • Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking while exploring the city.

  • Stay hydrated: Especially during the summer months.

  • Be aware of your surroundings: New Orleans is a vibrant city but like any tourist destination, it’s important to stay safe.

  • Respect the locals: Remember that you are a guest in their city.

Enjoy the unique charm and culture of New Orleans!